OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

Chattanooga City Council Meeting - April 14, 2026

City Council & City BoardsTuesday, April 14, 2026
BodyChattanooga, Tennessee
SessionCity Council & City Boards
DateTuesday, April 14, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record

STREAMING COPY IN PREPARATION — RECORDING AVAILABLE FROM THE ORIGINAL SOURCE

Transcript — Verbatim
13:53

Afternoon, everyone.

13:54

Welcome to the Tuesday, April Fourteenth meeting of the Chattanooga City Council.

13:59

We're glad to have you here.

15:01

Continue to help us as we navigate uh this city and all the business that we have to do.

15:06

In Jesus' name we pray, amen.

15:08

Thank you.

15:10

All right, Council, we are gonna start our meeting with a special presentation from Arts Build regarding Arts Week.

15:17

Um so if we've got a representative that's going to join us.

15:21

I see James McKissick back there.

15:23

Come on out.

15:29

Very good.

15:31

All right.

15:32

Good old thing.

15:33

Um, thank you.

15:34

As you know, it's Arts Week 2026, and we have uh so many different events and activities happening put on by many, many different organizations in our city.

15:46

And if I could just get some of our art supporters to stand and wave, um, we do have a really good group here today.

15:54

Yeah, let's give them right.

16:02

So these are the people that are doing it every day, um, working with young people, um, working with seniors, um, providing events and activities for tourists and locals a bike and working to really give us the quality of life that we have here in Chattanooga.

16:20

So we wanted to start just by showing a very short video.

16:24

It's an impact story from Arts Build Grant Making, and we could not do the grant making without your support.

16:31

So uh we wanted to share that with you first before we do the proclamation.

16:43

I'm I'm not a ticket person, they just say send the video over.

16:50

I don't it doesn't look like our tech leader has the.

16:59

I mean, we can send it to you later.

17:01

It was a YouTube link that we send.

17:03

We don't want to take up a lot of time.

17:05

Um, but I would ask my friend Monica to come up there.

17:08

Sure.

17:09

Hi, Council, Monica Kinsey, Deputy Administrator of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy.

17:14

It is my pleasure to present this proclamation to Arts Build for Arts Week.

17:20

Chattanega is proud to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit that make our community a vibrant and dynamic place to live, work, and play.

17:28

Arts Week 2026 represents a week-long celebration of the profound impact of the arts have on our local community local economy, education, and quality of life.

17:37

And whereas the nonprofit arts and culture sector contributes nearly 200 million annually to our local economy and provides meaningful employment to over 3,000 individuals, making it a driving force in the region's growth and vitality.

17:49

And Arts Build in partnership with local nonprofit arts organizations and artists works tirelessly to foster creativity, innovation, and cultural engagement throughout our community.

17:59

Since establishing the Office of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy in 2022, the city has worked alongside our community partners to support the arts as an essential component of shared prosperity, community building, and economic growth throughout Chattanooga.

18:11

Arts Week highlights the importance of the arts as an essential driver of tourism, economic development, and community well-being through programs such as Arts Spark, enhancing Chattanooga's reputation as a cultural destination for residents and visitors alike.

18:26

The arts play a critical role in inspiring individuals, enriching our shared cultural identity and connecting us all through diverse forms of expression from public artworks to visual arts, theater, dance, music, and more.

18:37

Now, therefore, I, Monica Kenzie, Deputy Administrator of Arts, Culture, and Creative, do hereby proclaim the week of April 13th through the 19th, 2026, Arts Week.

18:59

There we go.

19:01

Thank you, James.

19:02

There you go.

19:03

Did we get the video wreck?

19:09

It's a great video.

19:12

That's a terrific video.

19:14

Now we could challenge you to do an improv sketch of the video.

19:20

You know, I'm a wee first guy.

19:23

I see Rick giving me a wait just one second.

19:26

It's a maybe well, while they're looking at that, um, I want to fill everybody in on the way that we are gonna run today's meeting.

19:36

It's very much like like all of our meetings, but some of you are new, uh, maybe haven't been here before.

19:42

So our regular order of business is that we we meet, we do special presentations, and we're gonna go through the agenda for today.

19:52

We're gonna go through the agenda for next week.

19:54

We're gonna look at purchases for today, and then we're gonna also look at our agenda for three weeks because it's the council that does its homework and um looks at things pretty far out.

20:03

Um, at which point um we typically will take a recess um and then come back to do the voting for the meeting.

20:12

After that is when if you would like to address the council, we welcome you to to address the council from the podium.

20:18

Today is a little bit different because of the opening of the ballpark.

20:21

Um, we do not need an attorney client, right?

20:23

No, ma'am.

20:25

So we are not going to take a recess today.

20:28

We are going to go straight through.

20:30

So if you are here and you would like to address the council, please know that that's gonna be the order for today.

20:34

It can be a little confusing your first 17 or 18 million times through it, but um, that's how it works.

20:40

So we're glad you're here.

20:42

Okay, do we have the video?

20:44

May I almost have it?

20:46

Almost have it.

21:00

While we do that, council, can I get a motion on the minutes?

21:03

Oh move.

21:03

Second.

21:04

Thank you.

21:05

Minutes will stand without objection.

21:10

Okay, we're gonna go ahead and start talking about um our order of business for today.

21:16

Um, we will start off our um meeting with uh an election of council officers.

21:23

Um, and I'm gonna go ahead and uh take a little time.

21:27

I'd really like to say some thank yous.

21:29

Um being chair this year has been um a learning experience.

21:33

I I knew I would learn things, I didn't know what I would learn.

21:36

Um, and I'm really grateful to this council for trusting me with that um responsibility and privilege.

21:43

Um so thank you very much.

21:45

I want to thank um Vice Chairwoman Noel for always stepping in whenever I was unavailable to run the meetings.

21:51

I appreciate that very much.

21:53

Thank you.

21:54

Um, and also I think as being once you're chair, um, you just have a different perspective, and so I'm immensely grateful to all of the chairs who have preceded me.

22:02

Um, I've got two on this board with Councilman Dotley and Councilman Henderson.

22:08

Um, it's uh it's a heavy responsibility, and so thank you very much for for the leadership that you have offered our council in years past.

22:16

Um I could not have done this work well without our city attorney, Phil Knoblett.

22:22

So thank you for keeping us on the straight and narrow, um, always helping us um not step on our our own toes and and do the work well for the people of Chattanooga.

22:32

Um Kevin and Mandy, so Kevin Roig and um Mandy Green have been amazing to work with.

22:40

Um we meet regularly and they um have helped us get a lot accomplished in the last year.

22:46

And I know that they like I would like to get even more accomplished in the coming year.

22:51

Um, and perhaps most importantly, she's not sitting here now, but I hope Nicole is listening.

22:55

Um Nicole Gwynn is our city council clerk, and she is the engine that keeps our office running.

23:02

Um I am hugely grateful to her.

23:04

She has a job, unlike many others, in that she has nine elected officials, um, all of whom have been duly elected by their constituents, um, have our own um uh work that we want to get accomplished, our own attitudes about how we want to do it, and she maintains an office uh with the highest degree of professionalism and efficiency and also a great deal of um of care.

23:29

So um thank you, everyone.

23:32

Council, do we have any conversation we'd like to have about the election of officers?

23:36

If so, hit your light.

23:41

Councilwoman Dotley is that a new lighter from before?

23:44

Uh that's well, if it was from before, but it's also a new.

23:47

Oh, okay, go ahead.

23:48

Councilman Dolly.

23:49

Thank you so much.

23:50

First, thank you, madam chair, for uh being our chair for the last year.

23:53

We appreciate you and a service that you have provided to this council.

23:57

Uh, and also as a Madame Vice Chair Marvine Knoll, we appreciate your service as well.

24:01

It is my intention to come back, and no, we're not having replace, but it's in my intention to come back and nominate our vice chair um a vice chair Marvin Knoll to be our chair for uh 2027.

24:13

No, six, 26, 27 year.

24:15

And so I'll be uh having my light ready for that.

24:18

And uh she's worked hard for District 8.

24:20

She's worked hard for this council in our previous term and starting out this term, starting our strong as our vice chair, and so we appreciate your time and your service for that.

24:29

So just know that is my intention.

24:31

Thank you.

24:31

Thank you.

24:32

Very much okay, council.

24:36

We have an item on final reading.

24:42

We also have uh we have a second item on final reading for public works.

24:46

That is in district five.

24:47

And that is the alternate version on the first one.

24:50

Correct.

24:51

Yes, this is the the first is the booting and immobilization.

24:54

It's alternate version 11 that we voted on in first read last week.

24:57

Councilman Elliott.

25:00

Um, Madam Chair, I would like to if if you deem this appropriate.

25:04

I see they have this video up.

25:06

If you would be okay if we potentially suspended the rules in case uh some members may want to depart after the video.

25:14

Do you really want to depart?

25:16

Okay.

25:19

Because what I was thinking was we would work through this week's agenda, and then we could play the video.

25:24

Can you hold on with me?

25:26

This is important work we do.

25:28

Okay.

25:29

Um but I'm sure they really appreciate your heart going out to them.

25:37

Is this not the most thrilling meeting you'll be at?

25:39

Okay.

25:40

Um, first reading, we have it um several planning items that we're gonna be going over today.

25:45

Does anybody have any notes for those?

25:46

Councilman Davis.

25:48

Yes, thank you.

25:48

Um, item eight, a I know last week our city attorney asked about uh responsibility for the detention pond that was noted as part of that development.

25:58

Um, and I did get confirmation that the HOA will own and maintain um the detention pond as part of that new development there in Jackson Square.

26:07

So um I do support this um planning item and would appreciate the council's support.

26:14

And I believe that's 8B, correct?

26:16

I'm sorry, yes, eight.

26:17

Okay, all right, thank you.

26:18

Just want to make sure I had the most recent agenda there.

26:20

Okay, um councilman Elliott.

26:24

Thank you, madam chair.

26:25

For item F.

26:26

I do plan on motion to approve this one, but with conditions.

26:30

Okay, just want to make you aware of that ahead of time.

26:33

Okay, so we will expect an amendment on that.

26:36

Yes, ma'am.

26:37

Okay, councilman Clark.

26:42

Uh, thank you, madam chair.

26:43

I do have two planning items on the agenda that I like to discuss and probably actually bring up Karen Renick and maybe is Donna Shepherd here.

26:54

The this is in reference to uh item COVID is that correct?

27:04

It does not it's not 2026 0019.

27:08

Thank you.

27:08

Uh we that that is correct, madam chair.

27:11

We have we're adding conditions to this to make sure that there's a limit on the amount of units, also in regards to um the landscape, the attached landscape buffering and the minimum building setback figure.

27:28

Do you want to discuss that?

27:29

That's a new amendment that we that you council you should have at your desk for proposed conditions.

27:34

Do you want to add summary to that?

27:37

I can, and there's also um we could do the slides that might make it easier to follow along with.

27:43

And I don't um believe that Jonas Shepherd is here, but I believe that the applicant Matt Bedsall is intended to be here.

27:52

And um, so the there are three conditions that we discussed last week as part of this um project, those of um gonna be switched out and amended as additional work has been done.

28:03

So let me just get to the list.

28:05

So the maximum building height, these are proposed the new proposed conditions, maximum building height of two and a half stories is already part of the ordinance.

28:13

The second one is a revision to one of the conditions in the existing ordinance.

28:18

It's to provide a 20-foot landscape buffer.

28:20

There's some additional language about what that landscape buffer will look like, and then we have a PDF document that shows those details, and the applicants um did speak with the LDO landscaping to make sure that that condition was appropriate.

28:35

Uh the third condition remains no vehicular access to Belvista Drive.

28:39

Um, the next three conditions are new.

28:41

No more than 53 dwelling units, no more than four dwelling units per mass building, and a minimum building setback is shown on the attached landscape buffer and minimum building setback figure, and that just shows um as your member this project's on North Moor at um abutts a neighborhood, and this is just showing setback from that neighborhood, and I'll provide a copy of that um to the clerk and the city attorney's office to attach to um the ordinance for reference.

29:08

Gotcha.

29:08

And uh Karen, one of the things there was conversation regarding the drainage and the stormwater and drainage that the engineer was working on a site plan regarding that.

29:20

Is that something I know that will be addressed normally during the permitting process, but is that something that we will see in the attached landscape buffer or what are the plans for that and Matt Bed Sall is behind you?

29:33

Can you have some commentary to that or I can speak maybe to this?

29:37

I think there's the stormwater grading plan, and then there's also a water line, maybe discussion with a neighbor, and I can speak to the stormwater grading plan, and maybe Mr.

29:46

Bedsall can speak a little bit to the commitment on the water line.

29:49

The the concern came from the resident Mr.

29:51

Keith.

29:52

We had our community meeting, and I know there was some confusion even on my part about what the concern was, but I want to make sure that it is addressed and that we are paying attention to his concern regarding the water line in this project.

30:05

And I will defer to him and then he can reference where the what the property is on the map.

30:12

Thanks, Councilman.

30:13

Uh so my name is Matt Betzlo, I'm the applicant.

30:16

Um we have spoken uh to the gentleman.

30:20

Uh so currently there is a water line that runs through our property uh that accesses his property.

30:26

Um that has an easement on that currently, right now.

30:30

And so it's our understanding um that uh it'll be protected from any kind of disruption.

30:35

Our goal for our property is to build a new waterline connection from our site and probably extend that main.

30:42

Uh so it's likely what we're gonna do is through that process when we're connecting our site to the water main, we will build a new connection for him.

30:51

Uh and it won't disrupt a service, it'll be a very, very small, maybe an hour or two disruption to a service when re we reconnect his property to the new main water line that we're building on our site.

31:01

Okay, and those plans have been discussed with Mr.

31:03

Keith.

31:03

Yes, okay.

31:04

Can you also uh write that in a memo?

31:06

I want to attach it as a conditioning because I think it's being addressed during the permitting process.

31:10

Is that correct?

31:11

Yes, but I would like that commitment in writing and a memo to for both uh Mr.

31:16

Keith and I.

31:17

We can work on that.

31:18

Okay, and just as a good faith measure, of course.

31:20

Okay, other than that, um, I'm very happy with this.

31:23

This is a long standing project.

31:24

I'm excited.

31:25

I see the pastor of uh Tucker Baptist Church and Minister Irvin Overton is of that church, they are also here, and some other people here as well that have labored, including with some of our council people, uh, to get this project across the finish line.

31:41

I think this is gonna be an amazing affordable housing project.

31:44

Um the inaugural affordable housing project for Invest Chattanooga.

31:49

So I appreciate all of the work you all have done to satisfy the community and our community input sessions and to work with us on these conditions which bring satisfaction to the community.

32:00

So I appreciate you on that.

32:02

Madam Chair, that's all uh madam for like five more minutes.

32:06

Yeah, five more minutes.

32:07

Uh so with that, that's it on that one.

32:10

Um, and then uh thank you, Matt and uh Karen.

32:13

Uh on item D, I plan to defer that.

32:16

Um it is the applicant Deb King.

32:22

We have spoken via email, and we need probably about we're gonna defer that probably for another month for 30 days just to allow some community input.

32:32

Um dialogue to happen there.

32:36

Um, I'm excited about that project.

32:38

A lot of people want to build in district five, which is great, but we want to be smart builders and make sure our community is included in on that.

32:44

So I plan to defer that for 30 days, and I think that is all for district five and planning.

32:50

Okay, thank you very much.

32:53

Council, do we have any other planning items?

32:57

That need conversation right now.

32:59

No, okay.

33:00

Um moving into resolutions, some park rental resolutions, some appointments.

33:09

Councilman Dotley.

33:11

Councilwoman Dotley, excuse me.

33:13

No problem.

33:13

Thank you, madam chair.

33:14

I will be bringing an amendment to item E, a resolution.

33:19

Um Rossi's landing for Plans of the Festival, the music series, we're front nights.

33:24

But I would add Monica can be if she can come up and explain.

33:28

I had it, I had it together until I came out here.

33:31

If you can count these dates, so yeah, your eyes start crossing.

33:36

Uh so May 1st needs to be uh labeled as the Armed Forces Day parade static display.

33:43

Okay for May 1st.

33:46

I'm looking at Mickey.

33:47

Is that correct?

33:48

Okay.

33:49

I'll make sure I say that correctly.

33:50

All right.

33:51

And then we need to add two additional dates.

33:53

One is June 20th and one is August 29th, both for Ross's landing and Chattanooga Green, which increases the total amount uh 4,000.

34:02

Okay, for each for a total um 25,000 deposit, 25,000 waive.

34:07

All right.

34:08

That works, and this is a big economic creative economy uh event that happens right in our downtown.

34:13

So I'll be bringing that amendment and fieldy.

34:16

Yes, ma'am.

34:17

Thank you.

34:17

And we'll talk about all right.

34:20

Yes, ma'am.

34:20

Councilman Henderson.

34:22

Good, all right.

34:24

Thank you.

34:25

Make the dream work.

34:26

Thank you so much, madam chair.

34:27

Great.

34:27

Okay.

34:28

Um got it.

34:33

Um we have some finance.

34:35

Oh, we've got councilman Davis.

34:37

Yes, thank you.

34:38

On item nine, a um, I'd like to pass that just one week to have a conversation with the folks from um Shakespeare in the park about that deposit amount.

34:48

Um, so I'd appreciate the council's support for that.

34:55

Okay.

35:01

Okay, Council, we have our budget policies.

35:03

Please note.

35:04

Um, I'm sure that you clicked through uh to the link, but it has been revised to reflect the twenty two to thirty percent on the general fund balance.

35:23

Okay, seeing no lights.

35:24

Hold on with me, we're going to talk about our purchases for today, then we're going to watch a movie.

35:32

Council for purchases tonight.

35:40

Um RFP format recommendations, emergency purchases, or sole source purchases for consideration.

42:05

Thank you, James, and thank you, artists, for all you do in our city for our city and as our city.

42:11

You know, we together are Chattanooga, and because of our artists, we're um a better place, I think.

42:18

So um council, do we have any any comments, anybody?

42:30

Okay.

42:31

All right, well, thank you all very much.

42:33

You're welcome to stay because it just gets even better from here.

42:36

We're gonna talk about our two week agenda.

42:39

All right, council, let's take a look at that two week agenda.

42:42

Ums under first reading, we will have some uh a public works item in district eight.

42:51

We have um some resolutions.

43:00

Do we have any questions about any of those?

43:03

All right, looks like we're good to go on that.

43:06

Okay, let's take a look at future considerations, please.

43:15

Okay, starting out our future considerations, we have economic development for our C D B G fund.

43:22

Uh Richard, you and I did not get to connect before.

43:26

Um can you come share with us what the HCA HCI Affordable Housing Pro Preservation and Production Fund is?

43:34

We looks like we're setting aside about a million bucks out of the C D B G.

43:38

So that's the HPI's um housing and community investments, name of the division.

43:44

Those are home funds and part of the C D BG dollars that are set aside for affordable housing um production.

43:51

Um it's usually awarded to a nonprofit to build or to another organization to build, and um you approve those here um periodically.

44:00

So this is the first time we've seen this large an amount of money in recent history for this fund.

44:06

Is there a reason why we are holding that much?

44:10

I'm not sure.

44:11

That's a good question.

44:12

Sandra Gober will be here next week to answer any questions she may have about that.

44:16

She's a subject matter expert for this.

44:18

Okay, thank you.

44:20

Thanks.

44:52

Um, because we are ready to move into the voting portion of our meeting.

45:09

Nicole, I think you listened to our meetings.

45:11

Did you get to hear me say how much I appreciate you?

45:14

Yes.

45:14

Okay.

45:15

I do.

45:15

I want to look you in the eyes here in public and tell you that.

45:18

Thank you so much for all you do to keep this office running as well as you do and for your support of me as chair.

45:24

I appreciate it.

45:26

Okay, council.

45:28

First order of business for today is to elect officers.

45:32

Can I get a motion?

45:34

Um for chairperson.

45:38

Oh what oh, let me explain.

45:39

What we're gonna do, what we do when we do um uh chairperson and vice chairperson elections is we're gonna get nominations for chairperson, and then we will do um a roll call vote, and you will vote for who you would prefer to be chair.

45:54

Um if we have three people, then we'll do the vote and we'll take the top two and then we'll vote again.

46:01

Um and so that'll be the case case for both, or if we have nine people or so on, um, but we'll take it till we get down to two and then and then get a majority, and it does take five per hour rules.

46:10

Uh councilwoman Dotley.

46:12

Yes, as stated earlier, uh it is my pleasure uh to nominate Madam Vice Chair Marveen Knoll.

46:21

She served uh her district well in district eight, she served as well as the vice chair of council and as tradition will have it.

46:28

Our vice chair uh moves up to chair.

46:31

So I am uh beyond the lady to nominate you.

46:36

You know, you'll mentor to me, and I am just between the lookouts and you bye-bye fire.

46:43

So uh that is my nomination.

46:46

Okay, thank you.

46:48

Councilman Henderson.

46:50

Thank you, madam chair.

46:51

I'll nominate uh councilman Davis.

46:53

Okay, do we have any other uh nominations?

47:04

Okay, we will um start on this end.

47:09

Um, and we're gonna take a roll call vote, madam.

47:11

Or actually, you just handle it.

47:13

You're the clerk, you've got the list, right?

47:15

I don't have to go around the horn, you go around.

47:19

Either either one, whatever's on your list.

47:21

Okay, sorry.

47:23

You're the boss.

47:24

Yes, councilman Elliott.

47:30

Councilwoman Dotty.

47:32

No, Councilwoman Burrs.

47:36

Noel, Councilman Clark, Davis, Councilman Harvey.

47:47

Councilman Davis.

47:49

Davis.

47:51

Councilman Henderson.

47:53

Davis.

47:56

Vice Chair Noel.

47:57

Noel.

47:59

Chairwoman Hill.

48:01

Davis.

48:05

Okay.

48:07

I would like to welcome Councilman Jeff Davis to be our next chairperson.

48:11

Congratulations, sir.

48:30

All right, thank you, Chairwoman Hill.

48:32

Um, and thank you for your service this past year, and and Vice Chairwoman Noel, thank you as well for for your service.

48:40

Um council, I appreciate you all's confidence in me in this role.

48:45

Um, and promise you all work hard every day to make sure we do our work effectively and efficiently.

48:50

Um so with that being said, I know we have a ball game to get to.

48:54

I'd like to open the floor for nominations for vice chair.

49:04

Oh, and we have chairwoman here.

49:11

Thank you.

49:12

I'd like to nominate uh councilman Ronald Elliott for vice chair.

49:21

Okay, and are there any other nominations?

49:30

Councilwoman Dotley.

49:32

Yes, I'll move that we close nominations for vice chair and accept by acclamation.

49:37

Okay.

49:40

Sorry.

49:42

All right, we have a motion and a second to accept the nomination of councilman Ron Elliott for vice chair.

49:51

Any questions or comments?

49:53

All in favor?

49:54

Uh congratulations.

50:23

All right.

50:25

Madam Clerk, would you please read item 7A?

50:30

Oh, I'm sorry.

50:32

Yes, ma'am, you're recognized.

50:34

Okay, thank you.

50:36

Um I have a few words I would like to say.

50:40

And I want to say I am so grateful for my council family for affording me the opportunity to serve as chair as vice chair this last year.

50:51

So chair, council family.

50:56

I want to speak candidly right now.

50:59

I'm leaving this process with concerns, not just about the vote, but how the decision was made.

51:08

From my perspective, there was inconsistencies that are hard to ignore, especially when it comes to high leadership opportunities are extended.

51:21

I'll be honest, this didn't just feel like a political decision to me.

51:27

There were undertones that raised concerns about equity and fairness.

51:33

As a black woman in leadership, I'm always aware of how things can be perceived and experienced differently.

51:49

Because fairness, transparency, and consistency matters not just to me, but to the integrity of this council.

51:59

I'm going to be direct because the moment calls for it.

52:04

There's a clear and growing divide on this council.

52:09

That is not speculation.

52:12

It is evident in our decisions, our communications, and the breakdown in trust.

52:19

And let me say this.

52:58

This is about responsibility.

53:01

Because the role of leadership is not just to preside.

53:29

To a standard where our actions match our words, where our decisions are consistent and trust is not selective.

53:40

Because if we cannot demonstrate fairness and unity here on this diet, we cannot expect the public to believe in it out there.

53:53

Serving our community has never been about a title for me.

53:58

It's about the work.

54:00

Titles don't define leadership, actions do.

54:04

I remain committed to the great district eight.

54:24

Family to move our city forward.

54:27

But let me be clear.

54:36

I thank you for affording me the opportunity to serve as vice chair of Chattanooga City Council.

54:43

Keep in mind, leadership is not defined by positions.

54:48

It is defined by how you treat people when decisions are hard.

54:55

Thank you.

55:04

Thank you, Chairwoman.

55:09

With that, uh Madam Clerk, if you would please read item 7A.

55:14

In ordinance to mend in Chattanooga City Code Part 2, Chapter 24, Section 24, 337, and create a and create a new ordinance relative to booting and immobilization of vehicles.

55:28

Second council, this item has been motion for approval with a proper second.

55:34

Are there any questions or comments?

55:38

Seeing none, all in favor?

55:40

Aye.

55:41

All opposed.

55:43

And the motion passes.

55:47

Madam Clerk, please read item 7B.

55:50

In ordinance closed again, amending and unopened right away in the 4,000 block of Cromwell Road as detailed on the attached maps.

55:59

Motion to approve.

56:00

Second.

56:02

Council, we have a motion and a second.

56:04

Are there any questions or comments about this item?

56:08

All in favor?

56:10

Aye.

56:11

Any opposed?

56:13

Motion passes.

56:16

Madam Clerk, if you would please read item 8A.

56:20

In ordinance to amend Chattanooga City Code Part 2, Chap 38 zoning ordinance.

56:24

So it's the reason properties located in the 100 block of Russell Avenue and the 800 block of Signal Mountain Road from RN 17.5 residential neighborhood zone and CNT neighborhood transition commercial zone to CC commercial quarter zone.

56:43

And this is planning item 2026-0029.

56:48

Is the applicant present?

56:51

And is there any opposition present?

56:56

Councilman Henderson, this is in your district.

57:05

So I move move to approve.

57:09

We have a motion and a second.

57:11

Any questions or comments about this item?

57:14

All in favor?

57:16

Any opposed?

57:18

Item passes on first reading.

57:21

Item 8B, please, Madam Clerk.

57:32

I'm going to read this the way it should be.

57:35

There is an error here.

57:38

So a ordinance abandoning a residential plan unit development for properties located in the 6800 block of Bayou Court 6908 Cathedral Court 6700 block of Dixie Land Drive, 6800 French Quarter Court, 1700 and 1800 blocks of Jackson Square Drive and 6700 block of Pollyanna Lane.

58:05

Okay.

58:06

Uh and council, this is this item is in my district, and so I can't make a motion on it, but I did speak on it earlier.

58:13

I would appreciate a motion, and apparently now we also need a an amendment though first, since it says resolution at the beginning instead of ordinance.

58:22

That was okay.

58:24

I'll make a motion to approve.

58:26

Second.

58:38

Okay, we have a motion to approve and to amend that have been properly seconded.

58:44

Um questions or comments.

58:46

So this is a vote on the motion to amend, correct?

58:49

Yes.

58:51

Yes, on the motion to amend.

58:53

Uh chairman.

58:55

No.

58:56

Oh, okay.

58:57

You're good.

58:58

Um so on the motion to amend.

59:00

Uh we're on a vote for that.

59:01

All in favor?

59:02

Aye.

59:03

Aye.

59:03

Any opposed?

59:05

Okay.

59:06

Now we're back to the main motion.

59:08

That's amended.

59:08

Second to approve is amended.

59:10

Point of information.

59:11

Yes.

59:12

Is this not one you want to firm?

59:14

No, I'm good.

59:15

I'm good.

59:16

I will send my motion.

59:17

Okay.

59:18

All right.

59:19

Uh we do have a motion to approve as amended, properly seconded.

59:24

Um in favor?

59:26

Aye.

59:27

Any opposed.

59:28

And the motion item passes on first reading.

59:33

It'll be revised on second reading.

59:35

Right.

59:36

Yes.

59:36

Okay.

59:39

And item 8 C, Madam Clerk.

59:43

In ordinance to amend Chattanooga City Code Part 2, Chapter 38 Zoning Ordinance, so as to live conditions for number 4 and number 5 and amend conditions number 1 through 3 from ordinance number 14243 of previous case number 2025 0086 on property located at 1107 North Moore Road, subject to certain conditions.

1:00:05

This is planning item 2026-0019.

1:00:10

Is the I believe the applicant is present.

1:00:12

Is there any opposition present?

1:00:18

Motion to approve subject to certain conditions.

1:00:21

Second.

1:00:22

Okay, we have a motion and a proper second.

1:00:25

Would you like to read those?

1:00:26

Yes.

1:00:27

Conditions.

1:00:42

But these will be the conditions, and there are six conditions at this point.

1:00:47

One is maximum building height of 2.5 stories.

1:00:51

Two provide a 20-foot landscape buffer adjacent to the RN1 through 6 single family homes.

1:00:59

Buffer will include an evergreen hedge immediately abutting the parking lot, and the remainder of the buffer will include additional class one and class two trees.

1:01:08

The third is no vehicular access to Bell Vista Drive.

1:01:12

The fourth is no more than 53 dwelling units.

1:01:16

The fifth is no more than four dwelling units per massed building.

1:01:20

And the sixth is minimum building building setbacks as shown on the attached landscape buffer and minimum building setback figure, which will be provided.

1:01:32

All right.

1:01:32

Are there any questions or comments about the item or the conditions?

1:01:36

For clarification.

1:01:40

Yes.

1:01:40

Mr.

1:01:40

Turney, are you saying one of those conditions needs we need an amendment on this, or we do not need an amendment?

1:01:48

Those would be the conditions on here.

1:01:54

But there are now six conditions that are involved.

1:01:57

And uh that uh previous um provisions, it is still lifting uh previous conditions, number four.

1:02:04

So there's no amendment needed this okay.

1:02:11

Any other questions or comments?

1:02:14

Yes.

1:02:16

Yes, councilwoman Hill.

1:02:19

Thank you, Mr.

1:02:20

Chair.

1:02:20

Um this case has been ongoing since my first term on city council, and it's one I've watched very carefully and I celebrate.

1:02:30

I thank you so much, Pastor Hathaway, for your just long standing commitment and your your church.

1:02:36

I see Tony there.

1:02:37

Um sir, I I've blanking I'm on your name, sir.

1:02:41

But I'm sorry, I you just the way that you all have persevered with change after change with your commitment to developing an affordable housing um product that is going to be suitable for seniors is um to me something that uh I applaud the commitment and I also am so grateful for you following this call because I see that this project has the potential to be a catalyst for other churches.

1:03:07

Um you all have proven that this is not easy, but it is possible.

1:03:11

Um with that, I think other churches will look to you and say because we see it, we know it's possible, and we can do it too.

1:03:20

Um, and so um I look forward to to hearing that your meeting calendar is packed with other churches that want to find out from you how you made it work.

1:03:28

Um so congratulations to all of you today.

1:03:34

Thank you, Councilwoman Hill.

1:03:36

Any other questions or comments before we vote?

1:03:40

All in favor?

1:03:41

Aye.

1:03:42

Any opposed?

1:03:44

And the item passes on first reading.

1:03:48

Madam Clerk, if you would please read item 8D.

1:03:52

In orderness to amend Chattanooga City Code Part 2, Chapter 38's only ordinance, so it's the rezone property located at 3115 Dwight Street from RN16 residential neighborhood zone to RN15 residential neighborhood zone.

1:04:07

And this is planning item 2026-0033 is uh well.

1:04:15

I'm sorry, you wanted I believe um to defer councilman.

1:04:19

Uh thank you.

1:04:21

Thank you, Mr.

1:04:22

Chair.

1:04:22

Um, yes, I'd like to defer item two zero two six-zero zero three until May the 12th.

1:04:32

Can I get a second?

1:04:34

Second.

1:04:35

All right, we have a motion to defer to May 12th on this item, properly seconded.

1:04:40

Are there any questions or comments?

1:04:44

All in favor?

1:04:46

Any opposed?

1:04:49

And this item will be deferred until May 12th.

1:04:55

Madam Clerk, item 8E, please.

1:05:03

So it's the rezon property located at 3404 7th Avenue from R and to residential neighborhood zones, TR in one traditional residential neighborhood zone.

1:05:14

This is planning item 2026-0027.

1:05:19

Uh is the applicant present.

1:05:23

Is there any opposition present?

1:05:26

And councilwoman Dotley.

1:05:31

So we do have a motion and a proper second.

1:05:34

Any questions or comments on this item, Council?

1:05:37

All in favor?

1:05:39

Any opposed?

1:05:41

And item passes on first reading.

1:05:46

Madam Clerk, if you would please read item 8 F.

1:05:49

In earnest to men, Chattanooga City Code Part 2, Chap 38 zoning ordinance.

1:05:53

So it's three zone two on address properties in the 1,000 block of Shallow Road from RN16 residential neighborhood zone to TR and two traditional residential neighborhood zones subject to certain conditions.

1:06:08

And this is planning item 2026-0014.

1:06:13

Is the applicant present?

1:06:17

Is there any opposition present?

1:06:25

Vice Chairman Elliott.

1:06:29

She okay, she opposed.

1:06:31

Oh, okay.

1:06:32

There is opposition present.

1:06:34

Okay.

1:06:34

Um, so we do um allow those speaking in opposition to planning items to have um seven minutes.

1:06:43

Um and then nine minutes.

1:06:46

Um, and so please feel free to uh take the podium.

1:06:50

Um my name's Abigail Proctor.

1:06:54

I live at 1015 Challiford Road, which is the lot directly adjacent to this property being uh rezoned.

1:07:02

Um my concerns are first that the proper the four houses are being built within five feet or less of my driveway, and then also there is there is a lot of draining on that property as well, so that concerns me as well with our property being so close.

1:07:25

Um I also just do not believe that these four properties or these four houses that are being built on the property will add to the beauty of Chalford Road.

1:07:37

It is a road that is 99% single family homes, and to change that I feel would make it become almost an eyesore to the road.

1:07:51

Um I think that as fellow neighbors and Chattanoogans, we have a basic duty to each other to not allow the properties we build on or um renovate to become a problem for our neighbors.

1:08:18

It's the reason that when your grass is too long, the city finds you.

1:08:22

When you have junk in your yard, the city finds you.

1:08:25

I just don't believe that this will add to our property value.

1:08:30

The first house will be built 35 feet from my front door.

1:08:35

So I am those are my concerns with the property.

1:08:41

Um that's it.

1:08:44

So the drainage issue is my biggest concern because of how fast that water runs down.

1:08:51

I mean, when we had that big flood, I literally had a stream down my down that side of the yard.

1:08:58

So that is a cause for concern.

1:09:02

Thank you.

1:09:04

Thank you.

1:09:11

Yes.

1:09:12

Yeah, you're you recognize vice chairman.

1:09:15

Thank you, Mr.

1:09:16

Chair.

1:09:16

Um, ma'am, uh here's what I'm gonna do.

1:09:19

Um I'm gonna move to the furthest a week.

1:09:24

Um something we need to discuss is I was under the assumption that you all were okay with this because you and that we'll talk after this because we we can't have back and forth in this period.

1:09:38

Um because also I understand that they are probably gonna be building you know driveway, sure driveway technically cuts off at their uh junction.

1:09:50

So we'll need to come to some compromise because this could also jeopardize your driveway access, right?

1:10:00

Of what this looks like, because I can't tell them what to do with their property as is, but right now your driveway at least, which is part of my concern for you, is legally cutting into their property.

1:10:09

Okay, so we'll talk about this and then we'll uh figure something out with the applicant and go from there, okay.

1:10:17

Uh Mr.

1:10:17

Chair, I would like to defer this for I would like to motion to defer this for a week until April 21st.

1:10:25

Okay.

1:10:28

Councilman, okay.

1:10:30

Um councilwoman burrs, I saw your hand go up and down a couple times.

1:10:34

Is there something I'm good?

1:10:36

I'm glad that I'll turn my mic on.

1:10:39

Yeah, give me like um I was just gonna say, would there be a way to to defer it just to give the property developer time to talk with the property owner?

1:10:51

Uh I don't remember seeing any opposition at Planning Commission, but I wasn't sure what notification the developer had given to the houses around them in order to discuss it.

1:11:04

So no comment, no other comment at this point.

1:11:07

Thank you.

1:11:09

Mr.

1:11:09

Chairman.

1:11:10

I'm always very sensitive about uh my neighbors in all my districts, so this is not abnormal.

1:11:16

This is my due diligence.

1:11:18

And there's been some dialogue from what I understand.

1:11:21

Now the opposition is new.

1:11:24

Okay, because I did not hear opposition from planning commission, and unless I missed it, I also have not heard from anybody either.

1:11:32

Okay.

1:11:33

And so um, first time I'm hearing about it, which is okay, but we're gonna have to figure out how we get to a solution.

1:11:41

So councilwoman burrs, I appreciate your input, but uh I'll also make sure we'll we'll we'll take care of it.

1:11:46

I know you got it.

1:11:48

Thank you.

1:11:48

Thank you, Mr.

1:11:49

Chairman.

1:11:50

Yes, Councilwoman Hill.

1:11:52

I just want to give major props to Abigail for being here with a newborn baby.

1:11:57

Um, that is not an easy feat to get out of the house, much less sit in a meeting and stand up for something that matters to you.

1:12:03

So thanks for being here.

1:12:05

All right, so we have a motion properly seconded to defer to April 21st.

1:12:11

Any other questions or comments?

1:12:13

All in favor?

1:12:15

Uh any opposed.

1:12:18

And this item will be deferred until April 21st.

1:12:24

Madam Clerk, if you would please read item 9A.

1:12:31

Resolution authorizing the waiver park rental fees for a total of 38 days and the amount of 9500 with the deposit of 9500 at Greenway Farms Snipe Cabin for Scenic City Shakespeare rehearsals and performances on the following days.

1:12:48

420, 421, 422, 423 from 7 o'clock p.m.

1:12:53

to 930 p.m.

1:12:54

426, 427, 428, 429, 430 from 4 p.m.

1:13:00

to 930 p.m.

1:13:02

5152, 58, 59, 515, 516, 522, 523, 529, 53 from 4 p.m.

1:13:11

to 730 p.m.

1:13:13

921, 922, 923, 924 from 4 p.m.

1:13:17

to 9.30 p.m.

1:13:19

927, 928, 929, 9.30 from 4 p.m.

1:13:23

to 9 30 p.m.

1:13:25

10 2, 10 3, 10, 9, 10, 10, 10, 16, 10, 17, 10, 23, 10, 24, 10, 25, 820th.

1:13:36

I don't know what that is, but um 1030, 1031 from 4 p.m.

1:13:42

to 9 30 p.m.

1:13:44

a total of 38 days at 250 dollars per day rental equals 9500 rental fees weighed with a 250 dollar per day deposit of 9500 9500 due prior to the first event date with signed license agreement attached.

1:14:04

Mr.

1:14:04

Chair, this is in your district.

1:14:06

You ask for it to be deferred one week in agenda session, so I motion to defer for one week.

1:14:11

Second.

1:14:11

All right, we do have a motion properly seconded.

1:14:14

Any questions or comments?

1:14:16

All in favor.

1:14:17

Uh any posed, and this will be deferred one week.

1:14:24

April 21st.

1:14:25

Yes, till April 21st.

1:14:29

Madam Clerk, item 9B, please.

1:14:33

A resolution confirming the reappointment of Richard Johnson to the sports authority of the city of Chattanooga for District 6 with a term beginning on October 23, 2025 and ending on October 22nd, 2031.

1:14:48

Move to approve.

1:14:50

Second.

1:14:51

We do have a motion and a second on this item.

1:14:53

Any questions or comments?

1:14:57

You've got your hand up again.

1:14:59

Okay.

1:15:01

All in favor?

1:15:02

Aye.

1:15:03

Any opposed?

1:15:05

And is Mr.

1:15:06

Johnson here by chance?

1:15:08

Okay.

1:15:09

Well, if you're watching, thank you for your service on the sports authority.

1:15:13

Item 9C, please, madam.

1:15:16

A resolution confirming the reappointment of Bill Locker to the Sports Authority of the City of Chattanooga for District 7 with the term beginning on August 1, 2025 and ending on July 31, 2031.

1:15:29

Second.

1:15:30

Do you have a motion and a proper second?

1:15:31

Any questions or comments on this one, Council?

1:15:35

All in favor?

1:15:36

Aye.

1:15:37

Any opposed.

1:15:39

And is Mr.

1:15:40

Lockhart present?

1:15:43

Well, thank you as well if you're watching for your service.

1:15:48

Item 9D, Madam Clerk.

1:15:51

A resolution authorizing the waiver of park rental fees for a total of 17 days in the amount of $19,000 with a deposit of $19,000 at Middle of the Park for Chatternook presents nightfall music series on the following days.

1:16:06

51, 58, 515, 522, 529, 530, 65, 612, 619, 626, 73, 71, 7, 17, 724, 731 from the hours of 2 p.m.

1:16:22

to 1155 p.m.

1:16:25

1,000 per date rental, 1,000 per date deposit.

1:16:30

And the following dates for the three sisters bluegrass festival at the Chattanooga Green and Ross's landing 10-2 and 10-3 from the hours of 7 a.m.

1:16:40

to 1155 p.m.

1:16:42

at $2,000 per date rental $2,000 per date deposit for a total of 17 dates at $1,000 per day per rental location equals $19,000 rental fees waived with the deposit of $19,000 due prior to the first event date with a signed license agreement attached.

1:17:06

Do we have a motion properly seconded?

1:17:11

And did um councilwoman, did you uh mention earlier you wanted to amend this regarding the oh item E.

1:17:19

I'm sorry, okay.

1:17:20

Um all in favor um of item D.

1:17:24

Any opposed and this item passes.

1:17:30

Uh Madam Clerk, item nine E.

1:17:34

A resolution authorizing a waiver of park rental fees for a total of 21 days and the amount of 21,000 dollars with a deposit of 21,000 at route at Ross' Landing for Friends of the Festival Music Series Riverfront Nights for the following dates 51, 7 a.m.

1:17:52

to 7 p.m.

1:17:53

523, 530, 66, 613, 74, 711, 718, 725, 81, 88, 822, 95, 7 a.m.

1:18:04

to 7 p.m.

1:18:05

for the hours of 7 a.m.

1:18:07

to 1155 p.m.

1:18:08

And then also the Chattanooga Green for the following dates and times 51 523 6674 718 81 822 95 7 a.m.

1:18:22

to 7 p.m.

1:18:23

from the hours of 7 a.m.

1:18:25

to 1155 a.m.

1:18:27

for a total of 21 days at 1,000 per date rate per location equals 21,000 dollars part rental fees waived with a 1,000 dollar per day deposit of 21,000 dollars due prior to the first event date with signed license agreement attached.

1:18:47

Councilwoman Dodley move to approve second okay.

1:18:51

I would like to make an amendment uh feel yes.

1:18:55

You got the amendment could you read it out just for the record, please?

1:18:58

Yes, uh the amendment to this one will be a waiver of park fees for a total of actually 23 days in the amount of 24,000 dollars and adding the dates of June the 20th and August the 29th.

1:19:13

Okay, it is 25,000.

1:19:15

25.

1:19:17

Okay, 25.

1:19:20

And May 1st is designated as Armed Forces Day Parade Static Display, or it's for the Armed Forces Parade, Armed Forces Day Parade static display.

1:19:31

Right for the purpose of that, and we also got it for the Chattanooga Green and uh Ross's landing.

1:19:40

All the amendments.

1:19:41

Am I missing anything?

1:19:42

All right, all right.

1:19:44

So with that, I motion to amend.

1:19:46

Second sorry.

1:19:50

Okay.

1:19:51

Um so we have a motion second.

1:19:53

That's right.

1:19:56

All right.

1:20:00

Um, and so we are on the motion to amend any questions or comments.

1:20:03

All in favor?

1:20:05

Aye.

1:20:05

Any opposed?

1:20:08

And now back on the main motion to approve as amended.

1:20:12

Um, any questions or comments on that?

1:20:16

No.

1:20:17

Second.

1:20:19

All in favor.

1:20:20

Aye.

1:20:21

Any opposed?

1:20:23

And item passes.

1:20:27

Um, item nine F, please, Madam Clerk.

1:20:31

A resolution restating the city of Chattanooga's long standing financial and economic interest and improve prior prior proprietary appointment authority over metropolitan airport authority.

1:20:46

Second.

1:20:47

Council, we do have a motion and proper second.

1:20:49

Any questions or comments?

1:20:54

See none.

1:20:54

All in favor.

1:20:56

Aye.

1:20:57

Any opposed.

1:20:59

And item passes.

1:21:04

Item nine G, please, Madam Clerk.

1:21:06

A resolution adopting the volatile revenue policy, general fund, fund balance stabilization policy, structurally balanced budget policy, and the general fund, one-time revenue policy, subject to future revision copies of which are attached here to made a part here of by reference.

1:21:27

Move to approve.

1:21:28

Second.

1:21:29

Do you have a motion or proper second?

1:21:32

Any questions or comments?

1:21:34

See, I have councilwoman Hill.

1:21:37

Thank you very much.

1:21:38

Um budget chairwoman Dolly, I want to thank you again for leading this work.

1:21:42

Um, Weston and your team as well.

1:21:44

Thank you very much for being so responsive to mine and other councilpersons' requests that we take a look at these policies that were based on recommendations from previous studies that we've done.

1:21:56

To me, this shows real closing the loop and making an investment and wisdom from outside council and then putting that that work into effect here in the city.

1:22:07

I do think that this is going to be good in the long run for our taxpayers to ensure that our money is being budgeted in an appropriate way.

1:22:15

So thank you very much.

1:22:18

That's all, Mr.

1:22:19

Chair.

1:22:20

Okay.

1:22:20

Any other questions or comments?

1:22:23

All in favor?

1:22:24

Aye.

1:22:25

Aye.

1:22:25

Any opposed?

1:22:27

Item passes.

1:22:31

If you would please read items 9H through O as a package.

1:22:37

Item H.

1:22:39

A resolution confirming Mayor Kelly's reappointment of Erica Roberts to the parks and outdoors advisory committee for a term beginning on February 14, 2026, and then then on February 13, 2029.

1:22:51

Item I a resolution confirmed Mayor Kelly's appointment of Marcus Smith to the board or gas examiners for a term beginning on April 15, 2026, and then on April 14, 2028.

1:23:03

Item J, a resolution confirming May Kelly's reappointment of Doug Daly to the Board of Gas Examiners for a term beginning on September 30, 2021, and in summer it's 2025 and ending on September 29, 2027.

1:23:19

Item K, a resolution confirm Mayor Kelly's appointment of Susan Daly to the Board of Gas Examiners for a term beginning on April 15, 2026, and then in our April 14, 2028.

1:23:31

Item L of resolution confirmed May Kelly's reappointment of Doug Daly to the Board of Public Plumbing Examiners for a term beginning on September 29, 2025, and then on September 28, 2027.

1:23:44

Item M, a resolution confirmed McKelly's reappointment of Susan Daly to the Board of Plumbing Examiners for a term beginning on September 29, 2025, and then on September 28, 2027.

1:23:55

Item N, a resolution confirmed McKelly's reappointment of Michael Strock to the tree commission for a term beginning on May 15, 2026, and then in on May 14, 2030.

1:24:08

Item O.

1:24:09

Item O, a resolution confirming Mayor Kelly's appointment of Cash Daniels to the Parks and Outdoors Committee for a term beginning on our April 15, 2026, and then on April 14, 2029.

1:24:23

Second.

1:24:25

Council, we have a motion properly seconded or any questions or comments.

1:24:29

All in favor?

1:24:30

Aye.

1:24:31

Any opposed?

1:24:33

And are any of the appointees present today?

1:24:38

All right.

1:24:38

Well, again, if you're watching online, thank you for your service.

1:24:43

Madam Clerk, item nine P.

1:24:46

A resolution authorized the administrator for the Department of Wastewater to renew the on call blanket contract number W2202201.

1:24:55

Focus Sanitary Sewer Evaluation Survey.

1:25:00

SSES and read out blanket contract on wastewater.

1:25:03

Consent decree for year four four to SAC construction LLC of Off Island, Illinois, and inliner solutions of Orleans, Indiana for the annual amount of 11 million dollars.

1:25:18

Move to approve.

1:25:20

Council, we have a motion with a second.

1:25:23

Any questions or comments on this item?

1:25:26

All in favor?

1:25:27

Aye.

1:25:28

Any opposed?

1:25:29

Item passes.

1:25:32

We are now to our purchases.

1:25:42

Good afternoon, Council.

1:25:44

We have five purchases recommended for approval today.

1:25:48

The first is with public works.

1:25:49

This is a one-time purchase of a 41-foot aerial bucket truck to be used by technology services.

1:25:55

This purchase from Nichols Fleet Equipment will be in the amount of 144,000.

1:26:00

The award goes to Nichols Fleet Equipment as the best fit.

1:26:04

Item number two with public works is a year four renewal.

1:26:07

SPATCO Energy Solutions is requesting a 2.7% increase due to increased labor costs.

1:26:13

There will be no increase to the annual amount limit.

1:26:17

Item number three with early learning.

1:26:30

There will be no annual amount limit increase.

1:26:33

Item number four with technology services.

1:26:35

This is a one-time purchase of five mobile trailer cameras.

1:26:39

This purchase from Safeware will be in the amount of 237,528.45 cents utilizing Omnia contract.

1:26:49

And finally, item number five with the police department.

1:26:52

This is a one-time purchase of office furniture.

1:26:54

This purchase from office furniture warehouse will be in the amount of $54,587.

1:27:02

As the best bid.

1:27:12

All in favor?

1:27:14

Any opposed?

1:27:16

And the purchases are approved.

1:27:21

And now go around the dais for committee reports.

1:27:24

We'll start with uh councilwoman Noel.

1:27:29

Councilwoman Dotley.

1:27:33

Yes, I don't have a budget report, but I just want to encourage everybody to get you some lookout tickets, and we're gonna be at the game in just a few hours.

1:27:41

Very exciting for District 7.

1:27:42

I've watched it go from when I was a neighborhood uh resident to a neighborhood leader now, city council to watch that for over a decade come to fruition.

1:27:52

I done so I'm excited.

1:27:54

That's I there was no report, that was nothing.

1:27:56

I was just excited about it.

1:27:59

All right, thank you.

1:28:00

Thank you.

1:28:00

Oh sorry, thank you, Mr.

1:28:01

Chairman.

1:28:03

Councilwoman Burrs.

1:28:05

Thank you, Mr.

1:28:06

Chair.

1:28:07

We had uh the planning commission met yesterday for all of the planning and zoning cases that came before you the packet that you received a couple weeks ago from Brian.

1:28:16

So if you have any questions about items that were approved or denied or any discussion that came up yesterday, you can always go out to the Hamilton County um website, the the uh regional planning agencies um website and watch that video.

1:28:29

If there's any questions I can help you all with with those matters, just let me know.

1:28:32

Okay, and councilman Henderson.

1:28:36

Uh no report, but I would like to recognize uh County Commissioner Warren Mackie who has uh slipped in on us.

1:28:43

Uh thank you, Commissioner, for being here this afternoon.

1:28:47

That's all okay, Councilwoman Hill.

1:28:50

No report councilwoman Harvey.

1:28:56

Councilman as I said, man.

1:28:57

Councilman.

1:28:58

Sorry.

1:29:02

Sorry.

1:29:04

Um no report, but I too want to echo.

1:29:06

I want to thank uh councilwoman uh dotly for her work uh and persistence on the lookouts uh project.

1:29:14

The lookouts have been a part of Chattanooga for over a hundred years, and I can't imagine it not being a part of this community, and what a great asset it is to Chattanooga and Hamilton County.

1:29:24

And I'm so looking forward to taking my little girl when she's old enough to go and watch a baseball game.

1:29:30

And I encourage you all to do the same.

1:29:32

She is old enough now, and she'll be there tonight, but she can't walk, nor will she remember it, but she will be there.

1:29:39

That's all.

1:29:40

Thank you.

1:29:42

Councilman Clark.

1:29:43

Thank you.

1:29:44

Um, no report.

1:29:47

Okay.

1:29:50

Vice Chairman Elliott.

1:29:51

No report, Mr.

1:29:52

Chair.

1:29:53

Okay.

1:29:54

And I have no report either.

1:30:00

Um we're now to the section of our meeting where we're happy to recognize anyone from the public who would like to address the council.

1:30:06

So if you would like to address the council, please line up at the podium here in front.

1:30:11

Is there anyone who would like to speak?

1:30:15

If there is, we'll have our attorney read the rules.

1:30:19

Going once.

1:30:21

Apparently everybody's excited to get to the game as well.

1:30:25

All right.

1:30:34

Second.

1:30:35

All right.

1:30:36

We have a motion.

1:30:36

Probably seconded to adjourn.

1:30:39

All in favor.

1:30:41

Any opposed?

1:30:43

Or adjourned.

1:30:44

All right.

1:30:44

Gentlemen.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural███████████████████████████████31%
Planning And Zoning██████████████████████████26%
Parks and Recreation█████████████████17%
Arts And Culture███████7%
Affordable Housing███████7%
Racial Equity███3%
Fiscal Sustainability███3%
Personnel Matters██2%
Public Works██2%
Summary of Proceedings

Chattanooga City Council Meeting - April 14, 2026

The Chattanooga City Council met on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at 5:46 PM UTC. The meeting began with a special presentation for Arts Week 2026, followed by the election of council officers, discussion and votes on multiple ordinances, resolutions, and purchases. The meeting adjourned without public comment.

Special Presentation – Arts Week 2026 Proclamation

  • Monica Kinsey, Deputy Administrator of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, presented a proclamation declaring April 13–19, 2026 as Arts Week in Chattanooga.
  • She noted that the nonprofit arts and culture sector contributes nearly $200 million annually to the local economy and employs over 3,000 individuals. Since 2022, the Office of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy has supported the arts as a driver of tourism, economic development, and community well-being.
  • Council members thanked the arts community, including organizations represented in the audience.

Election of Council Officers

  • Outgoing Chairwoman Hill acknowledged Vice Chairwoman Noel, Councilman Dotley, Councilman Henderson, City Attorney Phil Knoblett, and staff. Councilwoman Dotley nominated Vice Chairwoman Noel for chair. Councilman Henderson nominated Councilman Davis.
  • Roll call vote resulted: Councilman Davis received votes from Councilmembers Elliott, Dotley, Burrs, Clark, Davis, Harvey, and Henderson? (The transcript shows: Elliott, Dotley, Burrs, Noel, Clark, Davis, Harvey, Davis? Inconsistent recording but final tally was 5 for Davis? Actually the vote tally shown: Elliott (Davis), Dotley (Noel), Burrs (Noel?), Clark (Davis?), Davis (Davis), Henderson (Davis), Chairwoman Hill (Davis). Outcome: Councilman Jeff Davis elected chair.
  • Councilman Davis then opened nominations for vice chair; Councilwoman Hill nominated Councilman Ron Elliott. Councilwoman Dotley moved to close nominations and accept by acclamation; the motion passed.
  • Outgoing Vice Chairwoman Noel made remarks expressing concerns about the process, equity, and fairness, stating the vote and decisions raised “undertones that raised concerns about equity and fairness” and that there is a “growing divide on this council.”

Consent Calendar (Items Approved Without Objection)

  • Item 7A: Ordinance amending booting and immobilization of vehicles – approved on final reading.
  • Item 7B: Ordinance closing an unopened right-of-way on Cromwell Road – approved.
  • Item 8A: Rezone on Russell Avenue and Signal Mountain Road – approved on first reading.
  • Item 8B: Ordinance abandoning a residential PUD on multiple streets – approved as amended (clerical correction) on first reading.
  • Item 8E: Rezone at 3404 7th Avenue – approved on first reading.
  • Resolutions 9B, 9C, 9D, 9E (as amended), 9F, 9G, 9H–O (package), 9P – all approved.
  • Five purchase items (aerial bucket truck, SPATCO renewal, early learning contract, mobile trailer cameras, police office furniture) – approved.

Discussion Items

  • Item 8C (1107 North Moore Road) – Rezone with conditions. Councilman Clark presented six conditions: max 2.5 stories, 20-foot landscape buffer, no vehicular access to Belvista Drive, max 53 units, max 4 units per massed building, and minimum setbacks as shown on attached figure. Applicant Matt Bedsole noted a water line easement with neighbor Mr. Keith and committed to building a new waterline connection with minimal disruption. Councilman Clark requested a memo documenting that commitment. Councilwoman Hill celebrated the long-standing project as an affordable housing initiative for seniors by Invest Chattanooga. Approved on first reading.
  • Item 8D (3115 Dwight Street) – Councilman Clark requested a 30-day deferral to May 12, 2026 to allow community input dialogue. Motion approved.
  • Item 8F (1000 block of Shallow Road) – Rezone with conditions. Opposition speaker Abigail Proctor (neighbor) expressed concerns about proximity to her driveway (within 5 feet), drainage issues, and that four new houses would not fit the character of the road. Vice Chairman Elliott moved to defer one week to April 21, 2026 to discuss compromise with the applicant. Motion approved.
  • Item 9A (Scenic City Shakespeare park fee waiver) – Councilman Davis requested a one-week deferral to April 21, 2026 to discuss deposit amount with the organization. Approved.
  • Item 9E (Riverfront Nights) – Councilwoman Dotley moved an amendment to add two dates (June 20 and August 29) and designate May 1st as Armed Forces Day Parade Static Display, increasing total days to 23 and fee waiver to $25,000 with deposit of $25,000. Amendment and main motion passed.
  • Item 9G (Budget policies) – Councilwoman Hill thanked Budget Chairwoman Dotley for leading adoption of policies for revenue, fund balance stabilization, structurally balanced budget, and one-time revenue use. Approved.

Key Outcomes

  • Councilman Jeff Davis elected Chairperson, Councilman Ron Elliott elected Vice Chairperson for 2026–2027.
  • Item 8C (1107 North Moore Road) approved on first reading with six conditions; applicant to provide written memo on water line commitment.
  • Items 8D, 8F, and 9A deferred: 8D to May 12, 8F to April 21, 9A to April 21.
  • Items 8A, 8B, 8E, and all resolutions (9B–9P with amendment to 9E) passed.
  • Five purchases totaling over $430,000 approved.
  • No public comments were made.

Meeting Transcript

Afternoon, everyone. Welcome to the Tuesday, April Fourteenth meeting of the Chattanooga City Council. We're glad to have you here. Continue to help us as we navigate uh this city and all the business that we have to do. In Jesus' name we pray, amen. Thank you. All right, Council, we are gonna start our meeting with a special presentation from Arts Build regarding Arts Week. Um so if we've got a representative that's going to join us. I see James McKissick back there. Come on out. Very good. All right. Good old thing. Um, thank you. As you know, it's Arts Week 2026, and we have uh so many different events and activities happening put on by many, many different organizations in our city. And if I could just get some of our art supporters to stand and wave, um, we do have a really good group here today. Yeah, let's give them right. So these are the people that are doing it every day, um, working with young people, um, working with seniors, um, providing events and activities for tourists and locals a bike and working to really give us the quality of life that we have here in Chattanooga. So we wanted to start just by showing a very short video. It's an impact story from Arts Build Grant Making, and we could not do the grant making without your support. So uh we wanted to share that with you first before we do the proclamation. I'm I'm not a ticket person, they just say send the video over. I don't it doesn't look like our tech leader has the. I mean, we can send it to you later. It was a YouTube link that we send. We don't want to take up a lot of time. Um, but I would ask my friend Monica to come up there. Sure. Hi, Council, Monica Kinsey, Deputy Administrator of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy. It is my pleasure to present this proclamation to Arts Build for Arts Week. Chattanega is proud to celebrate the rich cultural heritage and artistic spirit that make our community a vibrant and dynamic place to live, work, and play. Arts Week 2026 represents a week-long celebration of the profound impact of the arts have on our local community local economy, education, and quality of life. And whereas the nonprofit arts and culture sector contributes nearly 200 million annually to our local economy and provides meaningful employment to over 3,000 individuals, making it a driving force in the region's growth and vitality. And Arts Build in partnership with local nonprofit arts organizations and artists works tirelessly to foster creativity, innovation, and cultural engagement throughout our community. Since establishing the Office of Arts, Culture and Creative Economy in 2022, the city has worked alongside our community partners to support the arts as an essential component of shared prosperity, community building, and economic growth throughout Chattanooga. Arts Week highlights the importance of the arts as an essential driver of tourism, economic development, and community well-being through programs such as Arts Spark, enhancing Chattanooga's reputation as a cultural destination for residents and visitors alike. The arts play a critical role in inspiring individuals, enriching our shared cultural identity and connecting us all through diverse forms of expression from public artworks to visual arts, theater, dance, music, and more. Now, therefore, I, Monica Kenzie, Deputy Administrator of Arts, Culture, and Creative, do hereby proclaim the week of April 13th through the 19th, 2026, Arts Week. There we go. Thank you, James. There you go. Did we get the video wreck? It's a great video. That's a terrific video. Now we could challenge you to do an improv sketch of the video. You know, I'm a wee first guy. I see Rick giving me a wait just one second. It's a maybe well, while they're looking at that, um, I want to fill everybody in on the way that we are gonna run today's meeting. It's very much like like all of our meetings, but some of you are new, uh, maybe haven't been here before. So our regular order of business is that we we meet, we do special presentations, and we're gonna go through the agenda for today.

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